Hotel Royal Garden Villas

Me and my partner stayed here in November, after our Thomas Cook holiday elsewhere was cancelled. We didn’t know what to expect, and hadn’t been to Tenerife before, but this hotel surpassed our expectations and we were so glad we stayed here. You pull up to a large brick wall, situated in a road, but don’t be fooled. As soon as you walk through the large wooden gates, you’re greeted by a pool, beautiful plants and flowers, hanging seats, candles... it’s like an oasis. It’s orange walls and tiles make you feel like you’re in Morocco, but the public plunge pool gives way to the mountains of Tenerife. We had a “standard” room, a deluxe room I think it was called. The room was lovely, the bedroom filled with dark wooden furniture and a window with a private mini garden for your headboard. And a shutter so you can block out the light. You get a kitchenette, great for a light breakfast or lunch, depending on your board basis. We also got a small terrace which was great for sunbathing and having a drink or food in the evening. We also got a very small plunge pool. We definitely thought the pool would be bigger, but the more you pay, the bigger pool, so it did make sense. I’ve certainly paid similar prices in other parts of the world and got a much bigger pool(one you can swim in for example) but you can also use the main pool of the hotel of course, where you get sunscreen and towels. My only niggle was around the main pool there are only a few loungers, and a couple of times we went there and there was no space. There is a small bar tucked away to the left of reception, which we went to a couple of nights, and the cocktails were some of the best we’ve had! The bar staff were also very friendly and couldn’t help you enough. They even offered to carry our drinks to the restaurant for us! Speaking of the restaurant, hands down one of the best things about Royal Garden Villas is having Jardin Restaurant on site. The food was AMAZING! We were half board, so ate there about four/five nights out of our seven and every meal was fantastic. The service and quality of food was worth the extra money for half board. And when we went into Tenerife to eat, the food was good, but not as good as Jardin. The restaurant was beautifully decorated and a few nights they even had a piano player. Our breakfast was also in the restaurant, and was really nice. Such a good selection and again, the service was excellent. We had room service as part of our board too, and this was delicious with great service. Overall, a superb stay. Seems obvious, but go for the biggest room you can for your budget, as the pool size will reflect this. Unless, you don’t mind or won’t use the pool. We don’t play golf, but the hotel is very handy for golf course. Also, important to note it’s 15 minutes out of town, so be prepared for taxi rides or to hire a car if you want to get around.

A place for escape, discreet luxury and service, calm and above all privacy. Away from the hustle of the coast but easily accessible to the bright lights when you want them. A genuine escape from it all with first class food and service. A real gem - an insider's secret if ever there was one.